Sun Feb 01 13:52:01 UTC 2026: ### Air Marshal Walia Assumes Command of Eastern Air Command
The Story:
Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia took command as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force (February 1, 2026). He succeeds Air Marshal Surat Singh, who retired after 39 years of service. Air Marshal Devendra P Hirani also assumed the role of Senior Air Staff Officer at the Eastern Air Command on the same day.
Key Points:
- Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia assumed charge as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command on February 1, 2026.
- Walia is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and qualified on various MiG, Jaguar, and Sukhoi fighter jets.
- He has over 3,200 hours of accident-free flying experience.
- Walia previously served as the Defence attache at the Indian Embassy in Japan and South Korea.
- Air Marshal Devendra P Hirani took charge as the senior air staff officer at the Eastern Air Command on the same day. He has approximately 5,000 hours of flying experience on helicopters and trainer aircraft.
Key Takeaways:
- The Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command undergoes a leadership transition with Air Marshal Walia taking the helm.
- Walia’s extensive experience, including international postings and proficiency in diverse fighter aircraft, suggests a focus on maintaining operational readiness and international cooperation.
- The simultaneous appointment of Air Marshal Hirani as Senior Air Staff Officer ensures a continuity of expertise within the Eastern Air Command.
First Piper 